Photo Courtesy of The Higher Education Chronicle
As midterm grades are released, students may experience an onset of school-related stress. Many students at Fieldston feel pressure to perform well in classes, and seeing disappointing midterm grades can amplify that pressure. Students may be worrying about their parents’ reactions, what their final grades will look like and how they can improve their academic performance going forward.
Form IV psychologist, Dr. Oppenheimer, noted that students often report an increase in stress leading up to the distribution of midterm grades. “If the grades are acceptable to them, this stress quickly dissipates, but if the grades aren’t what they expected or to the level they hoped, students may feel prolonged stress.”
However, there are methods students can use to combat stress and work towards academic improvement. Even if students feel disappointed with their midterm grades, they should remember to feel proud of the work they have accomplished this semester, both in and out of the classroom. Oppenheimer provided a list of strategies for students to reduce academic stress, including “practicing deep breathing exercises, taking a walk, listening to music, talking with a friend or family member, journaling, engaging in mindfulness activities, getting adequate sleep, eating healthy meals, regular exercise and building time in your schedule for yourself and activities that you enjoy.”
Nearly two months of school remain after midterm home reports are returned. Students aiming to raise their grades are advised to carefully review their teachers’ comments, reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement and meet with their teachers to discuss any additional questions. Students can enhance their study habits by taking notes during class, using free periods to get work done, setting up an organized workspace, putting away distractions such as cellphones, using study tools such as flashcards, splitting large assignments into smaller pieces and planning productive breaks to engage in stress-relieving activities. Sleep is also crucial for academic success, as it allows for memory retention and increased concentration. Being well-rested will enable students to be more productive, focused, and able to cope with stress.
In addition, Fieldston students are encouraged to take advantage of the Upper School’s psychology department. As Oppenheimer said, “we would be happy to meet with you to problem-solve strategies to help manage your stress. You can email us or just swing by our office.”
